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Meet our Center for the Arts Executive Director...Cristy DunnCristy received a B.A. in Mathematics with a minor in Art History from East Tennessee State University in 1998. She spent more than ten years teachinghigh school Mathematics then Art in Carter and Johnson County schools. During her time as a teacher, Cristy received numerous awards, including a Crystal Apple award, Unaka High School Teacher of the Year, SADD club Teacher of the Year and Kiwanis/Kids First Teacher of the Year awards. Cristy has a special interest in inclusion for special education students, and her experience in the field of Mathematics proves useful in implementing STEAM integration programming. She serves as Vice President of Johnson County Arts Council, Co-Chair of the Long Journey Home Board, and a member of Johnson County JAM Board of Directors. She is also a member of National Art Education Association and American Women Artists.

As an artist, Cristy creates paintings and murals that tell the stories of Makers and of the power of the Arts to uplift the human spirit. Her traditional oil portraits incorporate the techniques of the old masters. Glazes create light filled surfaces. Silver leaf adds an ethereal element. In her current series, Makers, Cristy explores the sacred realm that a person enters when he is intensely involved in creating. "When someone sees my work I want them to feel a connection to the sacredness within us all."

Cristy's recent work in preserving the culture of Old Time music and arts in her community has sparked a true revival of interest in the history and music of her hometown. She received the President's Award from the Johnson County Arts Council for her work on the Musical Heritage Mural Project and Best in Show and People's Choice in the Arts Council's Long Journey Home Art Shows. She has shown her work throughout the region, and her art is treasured in many homes and businesses. You can find more of Cristy's work at www.cristydunn.com.

Cristy is very excited to serve as Director of the Arts Center, combining her passion for Appalachian Heritage and the Arts with her love of education.According to Cristy, "an Arts Center for Johnson County is a dream come true. I am honored to have the opportunity to help preserve and honor our rich heritage and nurture our community through providing greater access to the Arts." ​The Center for the Arts is grateful to have such a talented artist and visionary leader for this exciting venture to benefit Johnson County and the surrounding area​